Honoring Service and Sacrifice: What Purple Heart Day Means to R. Riveter

Each year on August 7, the nation pauses to observe Purple Heart Day—a solemn reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and strength of those who have been wounded or killed in service to our country. It’s a day that holds deep meaning for the military community—and for us at R. Riveter, a company founded by military spouses and powered by a mission to honor service in all its forms.

What is the Purple Heart?

The Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to U.S. service members. Established by General George Washington in 1782, it is awarded to those who have been wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It’s a symbol of sacrifice—a quiet but powerful recognition of the physical and emotional toll that military service can bring.

Behind every Purple Heart is a story. A soldier who returned home changed. A family who carried on in their absence. A legacy built on resilience and honor.

Why It Matters to Us

At R. Riveter, we don’t take this day lightly. We were founded on the belief that service doesn’t end with the uniform—it ripples out into families, communities, and generations. Many of the military spouses who craft our bags know firsthand what sacrifice looks like. They've lived through deployments, held down homes while partners served overseas, and supported each other through the weight of uncertainty.

To us, Purple Heart Day is a moment to reflect on that shared strength—to honor not just the visible wounds, but the invisible ones too. It’s about showing gratitude, raising awareness, and continuing to support those who’ve given so much.

Style with Purpose

In honor of Purple Heart Day, we’re offering a special promotion on one of our most meaningful pieces: the Hedy in Plum—available for just $108 for one day only. This bold, elegant shade symbolizes both strength and femininity, and serves as a subtle nod to the spirit of service we celebrate today.

We're also offering a FREE Purple Support Tag with any purchase—a small but powerful way to carry your support with you, every day.

Honoring the Legacy

One of the women who inspires us most is Reba Whittle, the namesake of our Whittle handbag. Reba was a WWII flight nurse, the only American military woman taken as a prisoner of war in the European theater. After being captured when her medical evacuation plane was shot down, she continued to care for fellow prisoners in a German POW camp. Though her recognition came late—she was only officially designated a POW two years after her death—her courage and compassion shine as an enduring example of selfless service.

When you carry the Whittle, you’re not just carrying a bag. You’re carrying her story. Her strength. Her legacy.

A Community United by Purpose

As we remember the heroes honored by the Purple Heart, we also commit to continuing the work they inspire. Every R. Riveter bag is handcrafted by military spouses across the country, providing portable, flexible employment to those who also serve in unique and powerful ways.

Whether you’re a veteran, an active duty service member, a spouse, a child, or a supporter—you are part of this mission. You carry strength. And we’re honored to walk beside you.

Together, let’s honor the past, empower the present, and carry forward the legacy of service.